Americans with Disability Act (ADA) Title II Program Overview

The MDOT State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is committed to a policy of full accessibility and inclusiveness in its business activities. We are committed to upholding the intent and spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability in admission to, access to, or operations of SHA’s programs, services or activities, to the fullest extent possible.

It is MDOT SHA’s responsibility and desire that no person be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity supported by MDOT SHA based on their disability. To the end, each and every employee is responsible for working cooperatively to achieve this. MDOT SHA is fully committed to the goal of achieving equal opportunity and nondiscrimination for all persons in their interactions with MDOT SHA.

MDOT SHA has become increasingly proactive in translating these commitments to agency wide policy and field-level application. ADA compliance is incorporated into MDOT SHA’s business plan, ADA-related training is a core requirement for all employees and MDOT SHA has conducted a field audit of sidewalks within its 5,200-mile roadway network to ensure compliance. Deficiencies are addressed through a transition plan, a long-term planning and scheduling document that incorporates both retrofit and new construction compliance. We attempt to use best practice of other states and federal agencies’ recommendations when appropriate, and likewise some of Maryland’s initiatives are being used elsewhere. MDOT SHA is undertaking many other initiatives at the strategic, policy and implementation levels that ensure we are not only compliant but go beyond the requirements toward achieving full accessibility for all those who live in, work in and travel through Maryland.

ADA Advisory Committee MDOT SHA formed an advisory committee in 2006, consisting of MDOT SHA staff and representatives from various organizations from the disability community. This committee served as a valuable forum for the discussion of ideas and approaches to MDOT SHA’s developing program. After several years and citing difficulties with scheduling and traveling, members suggested updates and information through email. While the committee no longer meets, its members continue to serve as an important resource.